The Wellington Phoenix’s chances of claiming a first A-League premiers’ plate are all but gone. 

They were held to a 1-1 draw in Newcastle on Friday night, leaving the Central Coast Mariners in prime position. 

The Phoenix looked on course for another dramatic victory after last week’s heroics, but captain Alex Rufer hit the woodwork with a 95th-minute penalty. 

It was a jarring result. It means the Mariners are only one point behind the capital team, with a game in hand. 

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